Stephen Bedingfield, a resident of Yellowknife, was inspired to chase solar eclipses after watching one over Antarctica in 2003. This week, he and his wife are in Spain pursuing their 13th total solar eclipse (23rd including partial eclipses), which is anticipated to last around two minutes. Bedingfield described a total solar eclipse as a breathtaking experience akin to witnessing the Great Barrier Reef, Niagara Falls, and Mount Everest all at once.
While a total solar eclipse will be visible in Greenland, Iceland, Spain, northern Russia, and a small part of Portugal this Wednesday, Canadians will have the opportunity to view a partial solar eclipse. Bedingfield emphasized the rarity and beauty of this celestial event, where the sun, moon, and Earth align perfectly to create a mesmerizing spectacle.
Throughout his two decades of eclipse chasing, Bedingfield has formed connections and discovered a close-knit community of fellow eclipse enthusiasts. He highlighted the unique environmental changes that occur during an eclipse, such as a sudden drop in temperature and shifts in animal behavior, making it a truly remarkable experience.
For those planning to view the upcoming eclipse, Christa Van Laerhoven from the Yukon Astronomical Society advised using proper eye protection, such as approved solar eclipse glasses or DIY alternatives like a pinhole projector. Van Laerhoven also debunked the myth that the sun is more dangerous during an eclipse, emphasizing the importance of always taking precautions when looking at the sun.